ARLINGTON, Va. — July 2011 — The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), the largest professional organization in the world promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all, welcomed six new members to its council. Comprised of 18 district directors, the council serves as the advisory body to the board of directors.

“Our new council members bring years of expertise and a range of experiences in teaching and science education to the association,” said NSTA President Dr. Patricia Simmons. “Their insights and contributions in education will help us continue our important work of developing effective solutions to the critical challenges facing science educators.”

The new council members include one of UW Oshkosh’s own:

Dr. Eric Brunsell (NSTA District XII Director), Assistant Professor of Science Education at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

An active and passionate member of the science education community, Brunsell began his education career as a physics and physical science teacher in Wisconsin. In 2000, he left the classroom to become the director of Space Education Initiatives, a nonprofit organization focused on providing professional development opportunities for teachers throughout the nation. Currently, Brunsell works at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh teaching undergraduate and graduate courses and engaging in projects related to integrating technology into the science classroom and professional development. He also blogs for Edutopia.org; is a columnist for NSTA’s The Science Teacher journal, and is co-chair of the Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers’ (WSST) Professional Development Committee.

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